“We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us — and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.”
1 John 3:16-18 (NRSV)
Purpose of an UMVIM Team
The purpose of every UMVIM team is to build relationships with all God’s children. Whether we serve in our own backyard or another country, our purpose is to share the love of Christ in multiple ways.
UMVIM teams engage in short-term missional exchange each year in ministries as varied as community development, pastor training, microenterprise, agriculture, Vacation Bible School, building repair and construction, and medical/dental services. There is a place for everyone to serve.
Methods of Service
There are several ways to participate in a team mission, either as a team member or team leader. The types of teams are:
- Work Teams: A group of persons from local church, district, conference, or surrounding community works on a building project in a mission setting in conjunction with the community they are serving (usually a church, school, clinic, or home).
- Medical Teams: Teams of physcians, physician assistants, dentists, hygienists, ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, nurse practitioners, and other medical and non-medical support personnel servce one to three weeks in places where ongoing medical attention is needed. Medical personnel may also accompany a work team.
- Teaching Teams: Groups of dedicated individuals prepare and teach the love of Jesus Christ through a variety of academic settings in conjunction with the communities they serve. These teams share Jesus’ love by teaching English Second Language (ESL), Cottage Industries (e.g., sewing), Vacation Bible School, and other children’s ministries.
Places to Serve
United Methodist Volunteers in Mission serve Christ in many countries around the world. In cooperation with local UMVIM Coordinators, UMVIM reaches out and matches the particular need with the gifts and talents of the many volunteers that are called to serve.
For a list of Domestic and International Projects the UMVIM, SEJ, and the UMC supports, please check out the Projects List page on the UMVIM site. For assistance in selecting the best site locations to meet the abilities and gifts of your team, please contact the NCC UMVIM Conference Coordinator.